CELS PDI CERTIFIED NEW HIRE PROGRAM I

Program Title: Onboarding: Building Foundations for Belonging and Success

Program Format

• Duration: 8 Modules (delivered weekly or bi-weekly)
• Delivery 1: Virtual, in-person, or blended
• Delivery 2: Hybrid (self-paced online modules + live workshops + reflections)
• Methodology: Workshops, case studies, group discussions, reflective activities
• Assessment: Knowledge checks, interactive exercises, reflection journals
• Certification: CELS PDI Certified New Hire Program 1

Program Outcomes

By completing this program, participants will:
✅ Understand the organization’s culture, values, and expectations.
✅ Commit to professional standards and workplace ethics.
✅ Engage inclusively with diverse colleagues.
✅ Navigate organizational processes and workflows effectively.
✅ Prioritize wellness, safety, and balance.
✅ Develop early-stage growth and mentorship plans.

Program Modules (8)

Module 1: The Purpose of Onboarding

Focus: Setting the foundation

• What onboarding is (vs. induction)
• Why onboarding matters for growth and retention
• The employee’s role in successful onboarding

Module 2: Organizational Identity & Culture

Focus: Getting grounded in culture

• Mission, vision, and values
• Organizational history and milestones
• Understanding culture as “the way we do things”

Module 3: Professional Standards & Expectations

Focus: Setting the tone for professionalism

• Workplace policies and compliance
• Ethical behavior and accountability
• Building a professional image

Module 4: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB)

Focus: Creating an inclusive experience from the start

• Understanding DEIB in practice
• Representation and belonging in the workplace
• Inclusive communication and collaboration

Module 5: Workplace Operations & Processes

Focus: Navigating the system

• Organizational structure and key functions
• Introduction to workflow tools and technologies
• Understanding reporting lines and accountability

Module 6: Health, Wellness, and Safety

Focus: Supporting the whole employee

• Safety protocols and procedures
• Employee well-being resources
• Stress management and resilience

Module 7: Growth Pathways & Mentorship

Focus: Setting the stage for advancement

• Introduction to peer mentorship
• Career development opportunities
• Goal-setting for early success

Module 8: Wrap-Up & Certification

Focus: Reflection and recognition

• Recap of onboarding journey
• Reflection activity: “My First Steps at [Organization]”
• Certification ceremony

Program Materials

✔️ Program Text – Empowered Onboarding: Building Foundations for Success by Dr. Arlian Salmon-Barnett

✔️ Facilitator’s Guide with detailed talking points
✔️ Employee Handbook & Policy Reference
✔️ Interactive Case Studies & Scenarios
✔️ Assessment Quiz + Certificate of Completion
✔️ Acknowledgment Form (signed for HR compliance records)